Test Drive: 2011 BMW 550i
Drive
Driving the 550i is fantastic. Equipped with a BMW TwinTurbo V8 that pushes out 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft. of torque, the 550i could potentially get you into some trouble with it’s uber-fast throttle response. You have to be prepared for the instant power coupled with the super-fast 8-speed automatic transmission. And with available Sport and Sport+ drivetrain and chassis settings, the 550i is truly a drivers car -- when you need it to be.
Of course, the most intriguing part about the 2011 550i is the Park Assistant feature. This nifty little gadget allows the car to park itself. No, really, it does. With the click of a button, you activate the system, then drive until the car spots a space it will fit in (yes, it will even do that). When it’s notified you that it will fit, simply pop the car in reverse and take your hands of the wheel. The 550i will then parallel park. The only assistance you need to give the car is braking. So, depending on how brave you are, you can either park very quickly or very, very, very slowly.
BMW’s 5 Series is the ideal combination of everything good BMW has to offer. It has plenty of interior space and luxury without being as big and hotel-like as the 7 Series, and it has the drive and performance of the 3 Series with more trunk space. Overall, the 550i is a phenomenal car, and I can’t wait to get behind the wheel again.
